When most people think of Madeira, they picture luxury hotels, colourful gardens and the bustling streets of Funchal.
But head north, and you’ll discover a completely different side of the island.
Think towering cliffs crashing into the Atlantic, lush green mountains, dramatic waterfalls and tiny villages where life still moves at its own pace. Northern Madeira feels wonderfully untouched, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, incredible hiking, natural swimming pools and a holiday that’s a little different, Northern Madeira might just steal your heart.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Country | Portugal |
| Island | Madeira |
| Flight Time (UK) | Around 4 hours |
| Nearest Airport | Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC) |
| Transfer Time | Around 45–60 minutes depending on where you stay |
| Best For | Nature Lovers, Walkers, Couples, Scenic Road Trips |
| Famous For | Mountains, Waterfalls, Natural Pools, Levada Walks |
Book Your Northern Madeira Holiday
Booking a package holiday is one of the easiest ways to explore Madeira.
Companies like TUI, Jet2 and On the Beach offer a range of hotels across the island, often including flights and transfers, making planning your trip simple. If you’re planning to explore the north properly, it’s also worth hiring a car, as many of the island’s most beautiful spots are easiest to reach on four wheels.
👉Jet2 Holidays
👉TUI Holidays
👉On The Beach Holidays
Whether you’re looking for a walking holiday, a romantic escape or simply somewhere surrounded by incredible scenery, Madeira offers something a little different.
Why Visit Northern Madeira?
Northern Madeira is all about nature.
The landscapes here are some of the most spectacular anywhere in Europe. One minute you’re driving through misty mountains, the next you’re standing beside a waterfall or looking out across the Atlantic from the edge of a cliff.
It’s quieter than the south of the island, with fewer crowds and a much more relaxed atmosphere. Instead of busy beaches, you’ll find volcanic coastlines, charming villages and some of the best walking trails in Portugal.
If you enjoy exploring rather than sitting still, you’ll never run out of places to discover.
Where to Stay in Northern Madeira
One of the most popular places to base yourself is Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic swimming pools and spectacular ocean views. It’s a brilliant choice if you want dramatic scenery and easy access to some of Madeira’s best attractions.
São Vicente is another favourite, offering a peaceful setting surrounded by mountains, traditional restaurants and some of the island’s most scenic roads.
For something a little more rural, Santana is known for its iconic triangular thatched houses and lush green countryside, making it an excellent base for walkers and nature lovers.
Accommodation ranges from boutique hotels and countryside guesthouses to luxury retreats overlooking the Atlantic.
Best Things to Do in Northern Madeira
One of the highlights of Northern Madeira is visiting the famous Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools. Formed by ancient lava flows, these crystal-clear pools are filled naturally by the Atlantic Ocean and are one of the island’s most unique places to swim.
A visit to Santana is another must. The village is famous for its colourful traditional A-frame houses, but it’s also surrounded by beautiful countryside that’s perfect for exploring on foot.
If you enjoy hiking, Northern Madeira is paradise. The island’s famous Levada walks take you through ancient forests, alongside waterfalls and across dramatic mountain landscapes, offering some of the most rewarding walks in Europe.
Don’t miss Seixal Beach, one of Madeira’s few natural black sand beaches. Backed by lush green cliffs, it’s one of the most photogenic spots on the island and feels completely different from anywhere else in Portugal.
Best Day Trips from Northern Madeira
A 4×4 jeep safari is one of the best ways to explore Madeira’s rugged north. You’ll venture along mountain tracks, discover hidden viewpoints, visit remote villages and stop at waterfalls that many visitors never get to see.
For walkers, a guided hike along the famous Levada do Caldeirão Verde is unforgettable. Winding through ancient laurel forests, tunnels and dramatic valleys, it’s one of Madeira’s most scenic trails and suitable for most fitness levels.
If you’re keen to experience the coastline, a dolphin and whale watching cruise offers the chance to spot marine life while enjoying incredible views back towards Madeira’s towering cliffs.
A day trip to Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peaks, is another must. Whether you hike between them or simply take in the views, the scenery is genuinely breathtaking and often feels like you’re walking above the clouds.
Book Tours With:
👉Viator Excursions & Activities
Food and Drink in Northern Madeira
One thing you’ll quickly notice is just how good the food is.
Traditional Madeiran restaurants serve generous portions of local favourites like espetada (beef skewers cooked over an open fire), black scabbard fish with banana, fresh seafood and hearty homemade soups.
Don’t leave without trying bolo do caco, Madeira’s famous garlic bread, served warm with plenty of butter. Pair it with a glass of local Madeira wine or the island’s popular poncha cocktail, and you’ve got the perfect end to a day of exploring.
The best meals are often found in small, family-run restaurants where the welcome is just as memorable as the food.
Nightlife in Northern Madeira
Northern Madeira isn’t about late-night clubs or bustling nightlife, and that’s part of its appeal.
Evenings are best spent enjoying long dinners overlooking the ocean, sipping local wine in cosy bars or watching the sunset from a quiet viewpoint.
If you’re looking for lively nightlife, Funchal is only around an hour’s drive away, but most visitors come north to escape the crowds and enjoy the slower pace of island life.
Top Tips for Visiting Northern Madeira
Hire a car if you can—it’s by far the best way to explore the island.
Pack comfortable walking shoes for levada trails and scenic viewpoints.
Don’t be surprised if the weather changes quickly in the mountains.
Visit Porto Moniz early if you want to enjoy the natural pools before they get busy.
Take a waterproof jacket, even in summer—Madeira’s landscapes stay green for a reason.
Leave time for scenic drives—some of the island’s best views are found between destinations.
Slow down and enjoy the journey. Northern Madeira is every bit as beautiful as the places you’ll visit.
Is Northern Madeira Worth Visiting?
Without a doubt.
Northern Madeira offers a completely different experience from many traditional beach holidays.
Instead of crowded resorts, you’ll find dramatic landscapes, peaceful villages, unforgettable walks and scenery that constantly makes you reach for your camera.
It’s wild, welcoming and wonderfully unspoilt.
If your perfect holiday involves discovering somewhere that feels genuinely different, Northern Madeira is one of Europe’s hidden gems.
Just don’t be surprised if one visit isn’t enough.
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